There’s a new powerhouse in the world of kids’ entertainment, toys, and consumer products. Ahead of Toy Fair New York, Toronto-based ChizComm Ltd., a leading marketing and communications firm, agreed to acquire New Jersey-based Beacon Media, the largest planner and buyer of kids’ television media in North America. Founded in 1992 as Summit Media, Beacon is led by Shelly Hirsch, Tom Horner, Lillian Lebron, and Paul Caldera. The merger of the two companies creates new opportunity to offer 360-degree, strategic marketing for clients and partners of both organizations. Integrated services will begin immediately.
Harold Chizick becomes CEO of Beacon Media while maintaining his role as CEO at ChizComm. Hirsch and Horner remain at Beacon Media as co-chairmen, overseeing business as usual with the current staff.
“TV media is the last piece of the marketing mix for ChizComm, and now we have the unique ability to offer clients everything they need for a full-circle marketing campaign under one roof,” Chizick says. “I still fondly remember meeting Shelly during my first year in the toy industry in 1999, and him taking me under his wing to teach me the ins and outs of TV media, why it’s important, and how to approach it. Since that time, Shelly has been a colleague and friend, and now I am thrilled to call him my partner as we enter this venture together.”
“ChizComm’s reputation, integrity, and passion for the industry is completely aligned with Tom and I, and I can’t picture a more perfect fit for this new organization,” says Hirsch, founder of Beacon Media. “Harold and I have known each other for over 20 years, and the combination of two great companies and the synergies and excitement for this next chapter will benefit both our current and future clients.”
Known for their strength in PR, digital marketing, social media, promotions, events, and product launches, ChizComm’s recent client list includes Arcade1Up, Wow! Stuff, Bandai, Super Impulse, Jazwares, DHX Media, Jada Toys, Nelvana, Excell Brands, 9Story Media, and many others.
In the television realm, Beacon Media works with some of the biggest names in toys, including MGA Entertainment, Spin Master, Wicked Cool Toys, Just Play, ZURU Toys, Playmobil, Little Tikes, WowWee, Tomy, Moose Toys, Playmonster, MEGA Brands, Cra-Z-Art, The Topps Company, Goliath Games, Radio Flyer, Playmates Toys, Magformers, New Bright, and dozens more.
